Showing posts with label autobiography. Show all posts
Showing posts with label autobiography. Show all posts

Friday 19 May 2017

Fascinating Memoirs written by Amazing Authors



Meet some Real Lives Authors and read their amazing stories.
But first, look at the Video.



Rich Israel is the author of Groovin': Horses, Hopes, and Slippery Slopes (Hippie Adventurer Book 1).

Here is an extract of a review of his book from Readers Favorite.

The author is a highly skilled storyteller--he describes each scene and person so well that the reader feels he was actually present. The book itself is inviting with meaningful quotes at the beginning of each part, some artwork, and a few photographs. The dialogue is crisp and well-
placed.
The reader is engaged from the first page to the last.
Mr. Israel notes that this book is the first of a series he is calling The Hippie Adventurer Series. Looking forward to the next one!" 5 STARS--Deborah Lloyd, Readers' Favorite
.
Buy the book at Amazon and read this fascinating story.

Kelly Artieri is the author of A Spot in my Heart: Loving a Special Needs Dog

This is what an Amazon Reviewer had to say about her book.

Reading this book is like having a heart to heart conversation with the author about the joys and heartaches of dog ownership.
My dogs are "normal", but, like people, none are perfect.
Communication in any and all forms is essential in all relationships, whether it's dog to dog, people to dog, or people to people.
I like books that entertain and teach at the same time; this book is one of the best in that regard. This is Ms. Artieri's first book, but I certainly hope it won't be her last.

Grab this amazing book at Amazon.

Jeffrey Von Glahn is the author of Jessica: The autobiography of an infant.

Here is one of the book's best reviews.

Who remembers accounts of their infancy? Of being born? Practically no one. But Jessica is an exception. She remembers before and after her birth. And it points out the fact that it’s so important to get a good start because it can profoundly affect the rest of your life either positively or negatively. Dr. Jeffrey takes you through the stages of Jessica’s life and paints a riveting portrayal of a damaged woman who somehow regains her sense of self. Good plot, good pace, excellent story! Good Job!
Get this at Amazon.

John U. Gunter is the author of My Schizophrenia: One Man's Struggles With Mental Illness.

This is what a doctor said about his book.

Your story helps us to be better clinicians and support you and others with recovery." ~ Dr. Celeste Johnson, DNP, ARPN, PMH-CNS.
Buy the book at this link.

Liz Norman and Tracey Samios have written Mum's the Word: Two Mums' Take on Life with Kids
'An exceptionally funny, helpful and wise take on life as a mum with kids.'

I read and reviewed this book.

Here is my review.

This is a book which brought back memories of motherhood.
It was filled with humour, love, and caring.
The authors are right.
Motherhood does not come with a rulebook.
It was well written and made me laugh.

Buy the book at Amazon.

Raquel Fletcher wrote The Year I Turned 25: A Memoir About Sex, Anxiety and a Dog Named She-Devil.

An Amazon Customer said this about the book.

Loved it! A very honest account of living with anxiety and helped make my own struggles feel more normal. I think it's important to open the dialogue about mental illness in order to break the stigma around it and the author does this in a serious but yet humourous way. I highly recommend to all! Thank you so much, Raquel!
Buy the Book at this link.


Mickey Thomas, an ex-marine wrote the book The Grass Swale: Living With Guilt, Depression, and PTSD

I read and reviewed this book also.
Here is my review.

The Grass Swale is a personal Memoir of the life of the author, Mickey Thomas.
He has shared a great deal of personal information with his readers.
Not many people are brave enough to do so.
He blames himself for the death of his brother, but perhaps if he had accompanied him that night, he too may have met his death in that fatal accident.
His experiences in boot camp and as a Marine were terrifying.
No wonder he suffered from PTSD.
His wife, Hope, and four children were stabilizing factors in his life.
He was even blessed with grandchildren.
Despite the many ups and downs in his life, Mickey has a lot for which to be thankful.
The book was interesting and lessons can be learned from it.


Buy the book at this link.


Jonathan Fryer, a British journalist, wrote Eccles Cakes: An Odd Tale of Survival.

Eccles Cakes is beautifully written, poignantly touching, disarmingly frank. Michael Bloch

Buy the book at this link.

Stephen Bentley is the author of Undercover: Operation Julie - The Inside Story.

Here is my review of the book.

This book is an intriguing depiction of drugs, crime, and passion and the arduous lives of police officers. In his memoir, the author relates his experiences as a young detective right up to Detective Sergeant, and then as an undercover agent. Operation Julie was the highlight of his career in undercover work, and it was also the cause of his illness that caused him to resign. The police service treated him shabbily, but he managed to move forward with his life in an admirable way. He pursued a degree in law, followed it up with post-graduate studies, and had a successful career as a criminal defense barrister until his retirement.
The book was a page-turner, and I enjoyed reading it.

Buy the book at this link.

Mary Thorpe wrote a book about her grandmother - That's just how it was.

Here is a glowing review of the book.

Readers should enjoy this poignant read and be able to experience Bridget's woes and triumphs along with her.
Moreover, they will end by thanking God that women like Bridget existed as role models for women everywhere and that such strong, hardy and steadfast women contributed to forming that charming, quirky, determined Irish character which shines in Irish eyes all over the world." (Shayne Langstroth BEd Hons.Med)


Get the book at this link.


Louise Beaubrun Macaluso wrote Broken to Be Blessed: A Turning Point.

I reviewed this book myself and found it inspiring and motivational.

Here is my review.

Broken to be Blessed is an inspiring and motivational memoir.
The author left her native home to go to America for a better life.
While still getting used to a new country, her life changed dramatically eight months after she arrived there.
Her description of the raging fire, which took the lives of five family members and disfigured her, brought tears to my eyes.
Despite the many months turning into years, she spent in the Burn Unit of the hospital obtaining treatment, and the many trials she faced, she overcame all obstacles. She achieved all of her Education goals and found a wonderful husband.
Her strong faith in God and the Bible references she used reminded me of my own life challenges and God’s love, which I too experienced in my life.
Coincidentally, “Great is thy faithfulness,” is also my favorite hymn and theme song.
When I started reading this book it was hard to put down.
It is a page turner.
I recommend this book very highly.

Get the book at Amazon.

Evelyn Mann wrote Miracle In My Living Room: The Story of a Little Mann.

This is another book that I had the privilege of reading and reviewing.

Here is my review.

This book was inspiring and evoked my emotions.
It is indeed a story of hope and faith in God for parents who were determined to see their baby survive despite the doctor's negative diagnosis.
They overcame many trials and obstacles through that eleven-year journey.
Miracles do happen and I believe in miracles because I have experienced many in my life.
I recommend the book to all who are faced with similar circumstances.
Never give up.


Get the book at Amazon.

Ann Marie Mershon wrote You must only to love them: Lessons Learned in Turkey.
This book is really popular and has received 55 reviews to date.

Read this wonderful review from one of her fans.

American author Ann Merson should be Turkey's ambassador for world peace. From the moment she first set foot in this fascinating country, she never wavered from her love of all things Turkish. I know because I lived these stories with her. Ann writes from the heart, with a keen eye for human interest, and with a fascination for the threads that bind humanity. "You must only to love them," states her Turkish friend, and love the Turks and Turkey Ann Mershon does, from the first page to the last. You will be spellbound by the adventures Ann jumps into head first, as well as struck by the kind nature of the Turks emanating from the book's pages, as well as its message of co-existing in and embracing new cultures. For me, the book was a walk down Memory Lane, but for you, it will perhaps be an eye-opener that shows, not a strange and unwelcoming Middle Eastern mindset, as is often portrayed in inaccurate reporting, but a loving and welcoming culture that embraces kindness to one another, helpfulness, and tolerance. Read and savor Ann’s account of her extended international teaching stay.

Get the book at Amazon.

Rebecca Long Howard wrote about a huge catastrophe in her life - The Day After the End of the World: A Tale of Catastrophe and Other Gifts.

One of Rebecca's fans wrote this review.

Habitually, I read with a book propped on something: desk, table, steering wheel (not while driving, I promise).
When I read this book, I had to hold it in my hands.
The author tells the story with her heart and soul, giving the reader the closest glimpse possible of the heartache and triumph she experienced. From fear and tragedy to hope and victory, she made sense of chaos.
Well done.

Get her book at this link.


Peter H. Green is another remarkable author who wrote Radio: One Woman's Family in War and Pieces (Voices of World War II Book 2).

An Amazon reviewer praised Peter's work in this review.

A heart-warming story of a loving and hard working family during World WAR II.
It brings back long forgotten memories of listening to the radio, Victory gardens, rationing books, women in new roles at home and work.
Well done - look back to another era in everyday life.
George Bohigian MD


Buy the book at Amazon


Liesbeth Heenk is a Dutch art historian, author, and publisher. She has written a series on Van Gogh. The books deal with various aspects of the artist's life and work: Van Gogh's Inner Struggle, Van Gogh and Money, Van Gogh in Love. Most of the volumes are available in English, French, Spanish, Japanese and Chinese. She also published the series Amsterdam Museum Books for tourists and visitors who want to get the most out of their trip to Amsterdam.

A reviewer had this to say about Liesbeth's Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam: Highlights of the Collection.

I bought this as a series of ebooks to prepare me for my upcoming trip to Amsterdam. This one is my favorite, since I feel a special connection to Van Gogh. While this book is definitely a great resource for the museum, I was pleasantly surprised at all the history and context included as well. For instance, this book discusses the Japanese influence on some of Van Gogh's work--something I have not read in other books on this artist. In addition, Van Gogh's contemporaries are also discussed. Even the smallest interesting facts--such as the meaning of almond blossoms as it relates to a painting Van Gogh did--are included. Along with maps and resources, the detailed information on Van Gogh in this book is invaluable. A definite must-have for those planning to visit this museum!

Get her books at this link on Amazon.

Cheryl Evans wrote the book I Promised Not to Tell: Raising a transgender child.

Here is an extract of a review from Readers Favorite.

In the closing pages of I Promised Not to Tell by Cheryl B. Evans, the author says she wonders if she has made a mistake in publishing this book. Let me begin by assuring her the only mistake would have been to not publish it. I Promised Not to Tell is quite possibly one of the most important books to date on a very controversial and little understood social issue: transgenderism. I Promised Not to Tell will open a few more minds, clarify the myths and falsehoods, and get more people talking openly about what being transgender really means. I loved I Promised Not to Tell. Couldn't put it down. Highly recommended reading." - Viga Boland for Readers Favorite 5 Stars!

Get the book at this link.

Ann Richardson wrote Life in a Hospice: Reflections on caring for the dying.

Here is the latest review for the book.

Ann Richardson did an excellent job with this book. For some, hearing the word "hospice" may seem intimidating. However, this book is about living; it depicts the lives of individuals who are devoted to selflessly aid fellow human beings who are facing their darkest time. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Life In A Hospice, because it teaches poignant life lessons we all should be aware of in order to be our best selves. I highly recommend it!

Get the book at this link.

Last, but not least, is my story, My Life as a Banker: A Life Worth Living

This story is not only about banking, but it is about my personal life and how and where I met my husband.
I also wrote about my very first trip abroad which took me to New York, Canada, London, Germany, and Holland.
My Life as a Banker: A Life Worth Living was voted second in Bio/Memoirs in Metamorph's Publishing Summer Indie Book Awards 2016.

Here is one review of the book which I like very much.
Inspiring and eminently interesting story
ByKato's Revenge on June 26, 2016
Format: Paperback
5.0 out of 5.0 stars
For those of us who are not in the banking industry, and for me, especially living in a country where the capital is the financial hub of the country (perhaps the world) you might think a story called My Life As A Banker would be too dry to enjoy.

Author Brenda Mohammed has written quite a few books across different genres. This book is a relatively quick read but readers can be taken along her life's journey as they turn the pages.

I found myself more interested in the 'Life Worth Living' elements of the book. I congratulate her hard work which allowed her to work in the banking industry and get promoted. But I was more interested in the personal side of things, for example how she met her husband (that's an excellent segment of the book) and also attaining her strict father's support for the marriage.

The author's approach to writing this memoir is direct and therefore one imagines this is how she would speak in real life. But the tale is told with such verve and energy, it is an enjoyable book that people will find much to like.

The real life stories contained within are things we can all relate to. Things such as ending up in a great city like Toronto, but being sick at the time and told 'you shouldn't go out then'. But this is not the author's approach to life. If you have read her Travel Memoir With Pictures, you will understand what an accomplished traveller this lady is.

There's some surprisingly gory scenes in the book, tempered by some poignant sadness around certain family members, as well as the central theme of how the author made her living in the banking sector.

It's an interesting and very readable memoir from one of the more creative authors out there.


Get the book at my Amazon Universal link.

There you have it-----Real lives stories by Real Lives Authors,writing books for you to enjoy.





Saturday 15 October 2016

Top Reviews for My Life as a Banker: A Life Worth Living


Voted Second in Bio/Memoir in Metamorph Publishing Summer Indie Book International Book Awards 2016.
The book is available in Kindle and paperback at Amazon
Also available at other digital outlets,Smashwords, Nook, Kobo, etc.BOOKS TO READ

Top Reviews for My Life as a Banker: A Life Worth Living:


5.0 out of 5.0 stars

"A monument to the author's successful career in banking as she rises from a bank clerk to several managerial positions.
on September 16, 2014, by A. Persaud
Format: Paperback
"My Life as a Banker" is an autobiographical account of the author's experiences during her career in the bank. She sets the stage by talking about her childhood and family and how her early experiences shaped her outlook on life.

Throughout her working life, the author always showed extreme devotion to her job and was constantly rewarded with praise, exciting new opportunities and challenges, as well as job promotions. She was able to succeed in her chosen career through sheer hard work and determination accompanied by her natural intelligence. Her achievements were always recognized by her superiors and she was rightfully rewarded. She started out as a bank clerk and eventually rose through the ranks assuming various managerial positions.

The author attributes her success to her faith and belief in God. She would pray for wisdom and guidance every time she faced a challenging situation. Whenever she had a problem, she prayed about it and the problem was miraculously solved. She continually speaks of the influence of God in her life and in the life of her family. The strength of her faith helped her to overcome any diversities that entered her life.

This book is important in its portrayal of life in the author's native country, Trinidad, in the latter part of the twentieth century.
It records some historical events through which the author lived. One such event is the takeover of the government by Muslimeens in 1990 and the scare throughout the country. Other significant events are the changes in the banking system and the bank's attitude to its employees throughout the years. In addition, the book shows how a young, determined girl just out of high school was able to have a highly successful career in the area of her choice and live a fulfilling life.

The book describes not only the author's work, but the fabulous vacations she was able to enjoy during her vacation time.
Her vacations always left her refreshed and ready to face new challenges.

Overall, the author views her life in a positive sense and is appreciative of the wonderful times and good luck she has experienced throughout her career. She is grateful for all the good that has occurred in her life and is thankful to God.
The book is written in a clear and easy to read style and can be enjoyed by people of all ages."


5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Great writing with such an interesting premise and structure
By L.K on September 17, 2014
Format: Paperback Verified Purchase
In this book Brenda is real and intense. Its an unforgettable account of the crisis, choices and challenges she faced in her life. Its about facing impossible circumstances, knowing there is a flicker of hope, and realizing that god is closer to you, than your own skin. Great writing with such an interesting premise and structure.

5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Inspiring and eminently interesting story
By Kato's Revenge on June 26, 2016
Format: Paperback
For those of us who are not in the banking industry, and for me, especially living in a country where the capital is the financial hub of the country (perhaps the world) you might think a story called My Life As A Banker would be too dry to enjoy.

Author Brenda Mohammed has written quite a few books across different genres. This book is a relatively quick read but readers can be taken along her life's journey as they turn the pages.

I found myself more interested in the 'Life Worth Living' elements of the book. I congratulate her hard work which allowed her to work in the banking industry and get promoted. But I was more interested in the personal side of things, for example how she met her husband (that's an excellent segment of the book) and also attaining her strict father's support for the marriage.

The author's approach to writing this memoir is direct and therefore one imagines this is how she would speak in real life. But the tale is told with such verve and energy, it is an enjoyable book that people will find much to like.

The real life stories contained within are things we can all relate to. Things such as ending up in a great city like Toronto, but being sick at the time and told 'you shouldn't go out then'. But this is not the author's approach to life. If you have read her Travel Memoir With Pictures, you will understand what an accomplished traveller this lady is.

There's some surprisingly gory scenes in the book, tempered by some poignant sadness around certain family members, as well as the central theme of how the author made her living in the banking sector.

It's an interesting and very readable memoir from one of the more creative authors out there.


5.0 out of 5 starsA most enjoyable read
By SUMMER on January 20, 2015
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
An interesting life story written in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner. A quick, easy read, this engaging memoir provides a glimpse of life few of us have seen. Both history and geography combine with the author's positive outlook to bring her story to life. Most enjoyable.


5.0 out of 5 stars for My Life as a Banker
By Fifty Sheds of Books on July 7, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition
My Life As A Banker is a fascinating, intimate story. The author has an engaging writing style that draws you into the story and you feel as though she is talking directly to you, the reader. There is a nice balance between the professional and the personal and while I found the professional aspects rewarding, the highlight for me was reading about the author's interesting life.

The social history aspects of the book also fascinated me, particularly the descriptions of life in Trinidad and I would image that this memoir will serve as an important document for social historians in years to come.

This might sound strange to say about a book with banker in the title, but the author demonstrates quite vividly that there are far more important things than money in life.


B5.0 out of 5 stars
Enjoyed the journey
By sandy k jones on July 17, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition
It was interesting to see how banking was in another country,than the United States. Being a banker myself, I found it interesting, and could relate to several tasks that are mentioned. I like the way her family was woven through the story.


5.0 out of 5 starsGreat writing with such an interesting premise and structure
By L.K on September 17, 2014
Format: Paperback Verified Purchase
In this book Brenda is real and intense. Its an unforgettable account of the crisis, choices and challenges she faced in her life. Its about facing impossible circumstances, knowing there is a flicker of hope, and realizing that god is closer to you, than your own skin. Great writing with such an interesting premise and structure. BOB. K

Thursday 21 July 2016

Book Reviews of My Life as a Banker: A Life worth Living







Review by Hannah Howe [Five Stars]


My Life as a Banker
By Fifty Sheds of Books on July 7, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition

My Life As A Banker is a fascinating, intimate story. The author has an engaging writing style that draws you into the story and you feel as though she is talking directly to you, the reader. There is a nice balance between the professional and the personal and while I found the professional aspects rewarding, the highlight for me was reading about the author's interesting life.

The social history aspects of the book also fascinated me, particularly the descriptions of life in Trinidad and I would image that this memoir will serve as an important document for social historians in years to come.

This might sound strange to say about a book with banker in the title, but the author demonstrates quite vividly that there are far more important things than money in life.





Review by Sandy Jones [Five stars]

Enjoyed the journey
By sandy k jones on July 17, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition
It was interesting to see how banking was in another country, than the United States. Being a banker myself, I found it interesting, and could relate to several tasks that are mentioned. I like the way her family was woven through the story.

VIDEO

Sunday 26 June 2016

Five Star Review for My Life as a Banker: A Life worth Living - A Memoir




5.0 out of 5 starsInspiring and eminently interesting story
By Kato's Revenge on June 26, 2016

Five Star Review by Kato's Revenge

For those of us who are not in the banking industry, and for me, especially living in a country where the capital is the financial hub of the country (perhaps the world) you might think a story called My Life As A Banker would be too dry to enjoy.

Author Brenda Mohammed has written quite a few books across different genres. This book is a relatively quick read but readers can be taken along her life's journey as they turn the pages.

I found myself more interested in the 'Life Worth Living' elements of the book. I congratulate her hard work which allowed her to work in the banking industry and get promoted. But I was more interested in the personal side of things, for example how she met her husband (that's an excellent segment of the book) and also attaining her strict father's support for the marriage.

The author's approach to writing this memoir is direct and therefore one imagines this is how she would speak in real life. But the tale is told with such verve and energy, it is an enjoyable book that people will find much to like.

The real life stories contained within are things we can all relate to. Things such as ending up in a great city like Toronto, but being sick at the time and told 'you shouldn't go out then'. But this is not the author's approach to life. If you have read her Travel Memoir With Pictures, you will understand what an accomplished traveller this lady is.

There's some surprisingly gory scenes in the book, tempered by some poignant sadness around certain family members, as well as the central theme of how the author made her living in the banking sector.

It's an interesting and very readable memoir from one of the more creative authors out there.

Friday 10 June 2016

Donation to my Alma Mater of My Life as a Banker: A Life Worth Living - A Banker's Memoir



I was pleased to receive the above letter from St Augustine Girls' High School.
I loved the part which reads,"Thus far the reviews of the students and staff who have read the book have been favourable and enthusiastic.

Here is the letter below:

Dear Mrs. Mohammed,
The Staff and students of St. Augustine Girls' High School wish to thank you for your generous contribution [ 10 books] of your Memoir, "My Life as a Banker - A Life worth Living." Thus far the reviews of the students and staff who have read the book have been favourable and enthusiastic. The library is looking forward to keeping in contact with you in the future and sharing more of your literary endeavours with our SAGHS community. Once again we appreciate your generosity and interest in our school and for this we offer our heartfelt thanks.
Yours truly,
Joanne Mahadeo
Principal


Link for the book : Amazon Universal Link

Friday 22 January 2016

My Life as a Banker - Book Trailer

AMAZON UNIVERSAL LINK



Has proved to be as good an writer as she was a banker. You cannot keep a multi-talented person down.

Posted by Brian Samlalsingh on Monday, March 7, 2016
FIVE STAR REVIEW NEW FIVE STAR REVIEW My Life as a Banker By Fifty Sheds of Books on 7 July 2016 Format: Kindle Edition My Life As A Banker is a fascinating, intimate story. The author has an engaging writing style that draws you into the story and you feel as though she is talking directly to you, the reader. There is a nice balance between the professional and the personal and while I found the professional aspects rewarding, the highlight for me was reading about the author's interesting life. The social history aspects of the book also fascinated me, particularly the descriptions of life in Trinidad and I would imagine that this memoir will serve as an important document for social historians in years to come. This might sound strange to say about a book with Banker in the title, but the author demonstrates quite vividly that there are far more important things than money in life.